Sir Keir Starmer has come under savage fire for sharing a bright Hanukkah message just moments after a deadly shooting rocked a Jewish festival at Bondi Beach, Australia. At least 12 people were gunned down during the celebrations.
Outrage As Horror Unfolds
Starmer’s tweet read: “As Jewish communities come together to celebrate Chanukah, I send my warmest wishes to families across the UK and around the world. May the Festival of Lights bring hope, peace and comfort. Chanukah Sameach.”
But with violence erupting at the same time in Sydney, social media erupted in fury over the appalling timing. One user slammed it as “The worst timed tweet in the history of this app.” Others called Starmer a “robot” and urged him to “delete this” as the tragedy unfolded.
Slow Response Fuels Criticism
Nearly an hour after his initial post, Starmer finally addressed the horror: “Deeply distressing news from Australia. The United Kingdom sends our thoughts and condolences to everyone affected by the appalling attack in Bondi Beach. I’m being kept updated on the developing situation.”
UK Leaders React
Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood spoke of the shock as she prepared to liaise with Australian officials. “Our thoughts must be with the victims of this attack in Australia and with the Australian people,” she told the BBC, adding she would monitor the situation closely.
Reform UK’s Nigel Farage warned: “The Hanukkah party shooting in Australia is horrendous. The threat is everywhere.”
Meanwhile, Tory leader Kemi Badenoch said: “Heartbreaking scenes from Bondi Beach of what looks like another despicable terrorist atrocity. We must remember the story of the Maccabees – symbols of resilience, courage and hope – themes we need more than ever in the fight of light over darkness.”
Deadly Attack at Bondi Beach
The massacre targeted a crowd of over 1,000 gathered at Archer Park for the first day of Hanukkah. The gunfire left at least 12 dead and 29 injured, casting a dark shadow over the Festival of Lights.
